Passengers at Pitsea station have step-free access between the station entrance and all platforms for the first time, following the completion of a major improvement scheme by Network Rail.

The £3.6m project, part of the national Access for All programme, included the installation of a new footbridge, three new lifts and the refurbishment of the existing concrete footbridge, making it easier and safer for passengers to move around the station.

Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, who officially opened the new facilities on Friday (December 12), said: “Since its opening in 1855, the station has proudly served Pitsea and I am delighted to see these fantastic improvements that will allow a new generation of travellers to benefit from its services.

“Despite these challenging times, the government is committed to investing in infrastructure and local services. I am extremely pleased that the residents of Pitsea will reap the rewards of this. I would like to thank Network Rail for delivering these improvements and do hope that they will be of benefit for many years to come.”

Dave Ward, Network Rail route managing director, said: “These new improvements will make a big difference to passengers, especially those with reduced mobility or with small children, and are part of our plans to build a bigger, better railway. The new lifts and footbridge will better meet the needs of passengers and businesses in Pitsea.”

In addition to the accessibility improvements, Network Rail has carried out platform extensions and resurfacing work to enable 12-car services to call at the station in future. The co-ordination of both improvement projects meant any disruption to passengers and local residents was kept to a minimum.

Julian Drury, managing director of c2c, said: “This major upgrade at Pitsea station represents part of the continual investment programme c2c has undertaken with our partners on the Shoeburyness to Fenchurch Street line. We are proud to serve the people of South Essex and we want to make a positive contribution to the communities we serve. These improvements at Pitsea will make a real difference to our customers, improving access to the platforms and making journeys easier for everyone.”